The U.S. Navy released a request for proposals to industry for the award of multiple conceptual designs of the Navy’s first block of Large Unmanned Surface Vessels (LUSV), Sept. 5.

These prototype design contracts will integrate common Government Furnished Equipment warfare systems with commercially derived platforms in order to mature specifications and cost estimates to inform the Detail Design and Construction request for proposals. Large Unmanned Surface Vessels of this configuration will be procured starting in fiscal 2021 with competitive Detail Design and Construction contract award(s).

The LUSV is primarily focused on affordably expanding afloat strike and anti-surface warfare capacity in support of manned surface combatants. The LUSV will be capable of autonomous navigation, International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea compliant maneuvering, and machinery operation with operators in the loop (controlling remotely) or on the loop (prompted action). All weapons employment will be commanded remotely by manned warships or control stations.

The Navy released a draft LUSV performance specification on June 25 and a LUSV Industry Day was held June 26-27.